When starting a small business, developing a business plan can save you time and aggravation. Learn what type of plan is right for your company and how to write.

2. Is Doing a Business Plan Worth the Time for a Startup?

4. Preparing

7. Time Span 3 years sometimes 5 depending on need

9. Questions

10. Gathering Information

15. Questions

16. Structure of the Business Plan

19. Vision/Mission Together they provide direction and focus on where your heading long term and where you need to be today. If you get into a bind, check your vision and mission for direction.

22. Mission Answers

30. Values and Social Responsibility – Employees – Suppliers – Customers – Community – Environment – Obey the law – Act ethically – Honesty and fairness in dealings – Double or triple bottom line Values Social Responsibility

36. Executive Summary • Solve a problem • Turn the problem into an opportunity • Define the market and its potential • Analyze the competition and state your advantage • Describe the company’s products • Strategize on the best way to market your product • Portray solid management expertise • Summarize financials and spell out how much you need and for what

37. Questions

38. Success Factors

40. Questions Others Will Ask Is the idea solid? Is the market large enough? Do they understand the market? Is the industry healthy? Are the financial projections realistic and positive? Is management experienced and capable? Are they strategic and flexible? Do they have good control of their finances? Are they passionate and motivated? Does the team have values and integrity? How will I get my money back?

42. Questions

43. Something Extra

48. Set Your Own Direction

50. Questions